WA’s energy safety regulator is investigating an incident in Gnangara in which a teenager is believed to have received an electric shock from high-voltage power lines while clearing vegetation.

Building and Energy electrical inspectors were at the property where witness accounts indicated the teenager sustained serious hand and other injuries after his trimming equipment made contact with the power lines, causing the electric current to pass through his body.

The high-voltage power lines carry 22,000 volts of electricity.

Energy Safety director Saj Abdoolakhan, said it was a distressing event that would no doubt have long-lasting impacts on the young man, his family and the people who were working alongside him and his thoughts were with them.

“This incident is a reminder of the hazards of electricity and how life can change in an instant,’’ he said.

Mr Abdoolakhan urged property owners to engage suitably qualified arborists, rather than attempting to trim trees themselves near live electrical infrastructure.

“As well as the dangers of electric shock, arcing or fire, there are also fall risks,” he said.

“Branches, tools and other objects can conduct electricity, while overhead wires can still be dangerous even without direct contact.”

Building and Energy’s Guidelines for the management of vegetation near power lines has more information on clearance zones and responsibilities for different power lines, properties and vegetation types.

For vegetation workers, the Code of Practice for vegetation worker electrical safety is also available online along with a guide, training information and an online assessment.

This article appeared on Yanchep News Online on 27 May 2023.